Manchester police notice rise in thefts of copper

MANCHESTER - Manchester police have been noticing a rise in thefts of copper and metal fixtures from vacant houses across the city.

On Laval Street, police on Sunday found the copper pipes and stainless-steel kitchen appliances gone from a vacant building. The building manager reported that the refrigerator, range and dishwasher were removed from the kitchen and the copper piping was cut from the basement.

On Concord Street, all the copper piping and radiators were removed from the building. Police took a report March 26 from the owner of that building, which was also vacant. Police estimated that several thousand dollars worth of copper piping were removed from the building, as well as approximately 25 radiators valued at over $3,000.

On Feb. 23, police investigated a report on Krakow Street where a small amount of copper piping was removed from the basement. On Feb. 22, police took a report at Pleasant Pond Way in a new home under construction, where copper piping was removed from the basement. Also stolen were several of the contractor's tools , including a compressor, nail gun and battery charger.

On Feb. 20, police said another vacant home on Lafayette Street was entered and copper piping removed form the basement. There was also some water damage, although they said it appeared the water was shut off before the pipes were removed.

Police are warning homeowners with vacant property to be sure to secure their property and check it regularly. Residents are requested to contact police immediately if they notice any suspicious activity, especially in vacant buildings.

Anyone with information on these reported thefts is asked to contact Manchester Police at 668-8711. Anonymous tips for cash rewards can be made though Manchester Crimeline at 624-4040 or online at manchestercrimeline.org.